Over the weekend, Oyo State witnessed two different fire outbreaks that destroyed properties worth millions of naira. The incidents occurred at a primary healthcare centre in Ogbomoso and a plastic factory in Saki, both leaving behind significant damage.
The first fire happened on Saturday evening, September 27, 2025, at the Masifa, Idi Araba area of Ogbomoso. According to reports, the blaze started in the solar panel room of the healthcare centre. Swift intervention from the Oyo State Fire Service prevented the fire from spreading to other parts of the building. While millions of naira worth of properties were affected, no casualties were recorded.
Confirming the incident, Mr. Maroof Akinwande, Chairman of the Oyo State Fire Service, explained:
“The distressed call was received at 8:55 pm. On getting there, our officers immediately swung into action and curtailed the fire from spreading further. The cause is suspected to be heated solar batteries triggered by plugged electrical gadgets.”
The second fire outbreak was reported on Sunday, September 28, 2025, at a plastic industry located around the General Hospital area in Saki. Sources confirmed that the fire originated from a solar power system installed in the factory’s storage room.
Again, the Fire Service quickly intervened, preventing the inferno from spreading across the entire facility. Although solar equipment and plastic materials worth millions were damaged, billions of naira worth of assets were reportedly saved.
Speaking on the incident, Akinwande said:
“The distress call was received at 12:50 pm at our Saki Fire Station. On arrival, we discovered that the solar power system was engulfed by fire. Our officers contained it quickly. No life was lost, but properties were slightly affected due to the electrical fault from the solar system.”
Thankfully, no casualties were recorded in both incidents, but the events highlight the risks associated with solar installations and electrical equipment when not properly maintained.
